Alhassan Yusuf delivered a ruthless individual display at Audi Field, scoring in the 23rd, 45th and 66th minutes to fire New England Revolution to a 3-0 Major League Soccer victory over D.C. United on Wednesday night.
The Revolution controlled the rhythm for long stretches and made their superiority count through Yusuf, whose two headed goals and clinical finish completed a memorable hat trick on the road. New England finished with 60.3 percent possession, 18 shots and seven efforts on target, while D.C. United could not turn 15 attempts into a breakthrough.
Yusuf puts Revolution in command
The visitors absorbed an early physical edge to the match before Yusuf opened the scoring in the 23rd minute, rising to head New England in front. D.C. United sought a response, but the Revolution remained composed in possession and limited the home side’s attacking momentum.
New England doubled its lead in the 45th minute when Yusuf struck again, sending the visitors into the interval 2-0 ahead. It was a punishing blow for D.C., which had stayed in the contest but had not found the final touch required to test the Revolution often enough.
A complete hat trick
D.C. United returned with a greater sense of urgency and registered three shots on target across the match, but New England’s defensive structure held firm. The Revolution then removed any doubt in the 66th minute, with Yusuf heading home his third goal of the evening to seal the points.
The result lifts New England’s record to 10-3-7, while D.C. United fall to 5-9-6. D.C. will look to respond when Charlotte FC visit on Saturday, while New England return to action against New York City FC on Sunday.
Key match facts
- Final score: D.C. United 0-3 New England Revolution
- Goals: Alhassan Yusuf 23′, 45′, 66′
- Possession: D.C. United 39.7% – 60.3% New England Revolution
- Shots: D.C. United 15 – 18 New England Revolution
- Shots on target: D.C. United 3 – 7 New England Revolution
